Implement a successful integrated weed management plan on your farm by following these five easy steps.
Everyone wants ‘clean’ fields – those that are free of yield-robbing weeds that compete with the crop. Clean fields don’t come without careful planning. Experts consistently recommend an Integrated Weed Management (IWM) plan as the best approach to managing weed pressure on-farm. A successful IWM strategy typically includes agronomic best practices that limit the introduction and spread of weeds, keeping them ‘off balance’, making it difficult for them to adapt. Simply put, a successful IWM strategy for your farm allows you to ‘Start Clean and Stay Clean’ each and every growing season.
Here's How:
PRACTICE GOOD AGRONOMICS EVERY DAY
For starters, practice a diverse crop rotation, control weeds when they are small, plant certified seed, practice periodic tillage, and use appropriate seeding rates and methods.
APPLY THE RIGHT RATE AT THE RIGHT TIME
Use full label rates and make applications when weeds are at labeled stages.
ADD OTHER HERBICIDES TO YOUR WEED CONTROL PROGRAM WHERE APPROPRIATE
Use multiple modes of action through sequential application or by tank mixing and applying two or more herbicides to the target weed population.
SCOUT FIELDS FOR WEED ESCAPES AND TAKE NECESSARY ACTIONS
Walk your fields regularly to look for weed escapes, uncontrolled weeds, and decreases in weed control performance. Mark suspect weed patches, and mow, cultivate, or spot spray. Do not harvest suspect areas with the rest of the crop.
KEEP EQUIPMENT CLEAN
Clean equipment can help minimize the spread of weeds seeds across the farm.